Mother's Boyfriend Allegedly Punched Bella Bond, Reports Say

BOSTON (CBS) – The man accused of killing 2-year-old Bella Bond, who was known only as "Baby Doe" for months until she was identified on Friday, allegedly punched the girl because he thought she was possessed by demons, according to reports.

Bella Bond was found dead in June on Deer Island, but her identity remained a mystery until Friday.

Rachelle Bond, the girl's mother, and her boyfriend Michael McCarthy have been charged in connection with Bella's death. Prosecutors say McCarthy killed the toddler and the girl's mother helped cover up the crime.

On Saturday CNN reported that McCarthy allegedly punched Bella because he believed she was possessed. CNN adds that it is unclear whether the punches killed Bella.

The Boston Herald reports that the tip breaking open the case came from Billerica. The newspaper says an anonymous tipster said their brother was told by Rachelle Bond that McCarthy "killed her child."

Department of Children and Families case workers had previous involvement with the family, but did not had an open case involving Rachelle Bond in more than two years.

Tamera Bond, Bella's aunt, told WBZ-TV on Friday that she was stunned to find out Baby Doe was her niece. But she added she didn't think her sister Rachelle Bond "should have had children."

McCarthy and Rachelle Bond are scheduled to appear in court to face charges on Monday.